The Young World by Chris Weitz

Title: The Young World
Author: Chris Weitz
ISBN: 9780316226295
Publisher: Little, Brown Books
Released: July 29, 2014
Page #: 374
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary:
"After a mysterious Sickness wipes out the rest of the population, the young survivors assemble into tightly run tribes. Jefferson, the reluctant leader of the Washington Square tribe, and Donna, the girl he's secretly in love with, have carved out a precarious existence among the chaos. But when another tribe member discovers a clue that may hold the cure to the Sickness, five teens set out on a life-altering road trip to save humankind.

The tribe exchanges gunfire with enemy gangs, escapes cults and militias, braves the wilds of the subway and Central Park... and discovers truths they could never have imagined."
_______________________________________________
First Lines: (Quoted from the galley, please see final version for edits.)

"It's another gorgeous Spring day after the fall of civilization. I'm doing my rounds, following the path that winds through Washington Square park, like a warped infinity sign."
Page 1
_______________________________________________
Review:

I was really excited to get my hands on this book - it's so firmly in my wheelhouse, it's freaky.

Jefferson has taken over leadership of the Washington Square tribe. Often the various tribes have to fight over space and resources - and they are no exception. One of their members thinks he knows how to cure the Sickness, but he needs to make it to a different territory to find the research. They get together a group and set out on a mission to save the world. Along the way, they encounter more obstacles than you can even imagine.

As I said, this book is firmly in my wheelhouse. Dystopian, teens are the only ones who don't get the Sickness, making tribes for themselves... learning how survive this new world. I'm down for all of that. Unfortunately, I'm not sure that this book does it the best. I think the concept of having it set in Manhattan - a place that has the potential to be completely cut off from everything else - is kinda cool. Things are sort of sectioned off there already, so it's easy to imagine how things would break down in the event of a disease wiping out most of the people like this.

But here's my big question... If people don't know New York very well, will they be totally lost while reading this story? Luckily, I lived there for a while, so I have a mental map of the island. So I wonder if people who don't know are sort of lost when street names and some visual markers are mentioned. And does it matter? I had a little trouble following their entire time in Central Park because I was picturing different things than what the author was saying. It was a little frustrating because those details seem to make a difference.

Another over-arching theme that had me concerned was the racism aspect. They said that when the sickness took away the adults and tribes were being formed, there were areas that completely decided to exclude certain races. Like... the Upper East & West decided to push people up into Harlem... I just have a hard time swallowing the idea that people would actually do that. I mean, I get it in the context of the story. And, of course, the main crowd we follow treats it all very respectfully. But the entire idea that something like that would happen really bugs me. Yes, there are certain areas of NY that are completely one ethnicity or culture, but it felt almost like it shouldn't have been part of the storyline. Maybe something will come of it in future volumes?

So, all of our main characters are basically brilliant. They've learned how to deal with the Sickness in various ways - some through medicine, some through invention, some through leadership, some through fighting excellence. It's just like cream of the crop. But it's a little like the author uses their brilliance to say things that the average, everyday teen wouldn't. It felt a little like I was listening to the voice of the author, rather than the voice of the characters. The multiple mentions of the 50 Shades of Gray books seemed really out of place.

That being said, I really loved Donna. Her sarcastic take on life was amazing and I wanted to be her best friend. She took everything in stride and really seemed to find the humor in most every dire circumstance. I really liked her and sort of wish her POV was the only one we read. She also seemed to be the most down-to-earth in her way of viewing things... like how I would hope we would all see the world. The book seemed to lose a little steam when we went back to Jefferson's POV - who was dealing with a whole different set of issues.

I'd be lying if I said I didn't care about the awesome role the library played in this story. I mean, the fact that there is an entire cult that worships information? Fascinating! And I love that it became a destination of security and the key to finding the cure. And thank goodness they found the article they were looking for! I mean, could have been a disaster :).

All in all, I think this book is a solid story about teens trying to build their own society, but I don't think it's a go-to for this genre. There are many aspects of this book that are addressed differently and maybe better in other books. And I will say that the end seemed to stop at the spot when it really got interesting. I know you should leave the reader wanting more, but there was something about this ending that seemed to be abrupt.

Okay, so I'm obviously not going to make this as my highly recommended book for people getting into dystopian... but I think it might be good for someone who has read a lot in the genre. There are a few twists and turns to make things interesting and it's possible that the cliffhanger ending will really get people excited to read the next book. I think it's worth reading if your a genre fan, but I'm going to need to think long and hard about reading the next book in the series.
_______________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

Justin's Book Blog
Book, Tea, and Piracy
Reading Lark
Libby Blog
Book Sp(l)ot Reviews
Hopelessly Devoted Bibliophile
WhoRuBlog
The Book Bratz
The Founding Fields
Gizzimomo's Book Shelf

The One by Kiera Cass

Title: The One

Author: Kiera Cass
ISBN: 9780062059994
Publisher: Harper Teen
Released: May 06, 2014
Series: The Selection #3
Page #: 323
Source: Checked out from my public library

Summary:
"The time has come for one winner to be crowned.
When she was chosen to compete in the Selection, America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown - or Prince Maxon's heart. But as the end of the competition approaches, and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realizes just how much she stands to lose - and how hard she'll have to fight for the future she wants."
____________________________________________________
First Lines:

"This time we were in the Great Room enduring another etiquette lesson when bricks came flying through the window. Elise immediately hit the ground and started crawling for the side door, whimpering as she went."
Page 1
____________________________________________________
Review:

**This review is going to have spoilers from books 1&2... it's pretty much unavoidable. So go read those first! And really, what are you reading this review for if you haven't yet?!?**

This final book in the series absolutely lives up to the excellence I have grown to expect from Kiera Cass. So many twists and turns that it basically gave me whiplash. But in the best possible way.

So, America has made it to the final four girls in the Selection competition. It's amazing, but it seems like she might actually have a shot at winning this thing. The girls have finally become closer, but the king isn't overly happy with how they are behaving. And the uprising from the rebel groups has everyone on edge and worried about their safety. Not to mention the emotional roller coaster that is America's life. It's an epic conclusion to a wonderful series!

I wish there was a good way to describe this series to people who haven't read it yet. I often say it's like the Bachelor but set in the future when there are castes and royal families. It just doesn't do the story justice - and probably puts off people who aren't fans of the Bachelor (like myself). So we need to work on that, world. I think more people need to get as entranced as I am with it - I may have already converted a few people :).

One of the main themes of this last book is the rebels and the crazy things happening with the citizens of Illea. America starts to realize that she's making connections with important people and how she can help change the entire society. It's really uplifting and you can tell she's gaining confidence in herself and her relationship with Maxon. I love how she emerges as a strong woman through all of her insecurities.

In previous books, I feel like many of the relationships that are formed are tenuous and calculated. It's nice to see actual friendships develop that aren't quite so surface-focused. Those friendships are what really give this book a sweet, loving feeling. The competition is drawing to a close. The girls are getting close and understanding each other. America has become even more close with the people who serve her. There's just an overall feeling of calm and sweetness that hasn't been there in the last books.

Now, I say there was calm... I'm going to tell you that Kiera Cass tries to give you a heart attack in the last 30 pages. Like, dead. It almost worked. There is a ton of action and things start spiraling ... it's so intense! I know I can't say much more than that. But I did have at least six separate "OH NO!!!!" moments. So take that for what it's worth.

Seriously, if you haven't been reading The Selection series, I highly recommend you do so. The series is done now and there is an amazing conclusion. I'm definitely excited to see what this author has in store next.
____________________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

The YA Bookworm Blogger
The Indigo Quill
The Cozy Reader
A Sunny Spot
Writer of Wrongs
Beauty and the Books
Seeing Double in Neverland
The Readiacs
Queen Ella Bee Reads
My Crazy Bookish World

Allegiant by Veronica Roth

Title: Allegiant
Author: Veronica Roth
ISBN: 9780062024060
Publisher: HarperCollins
Released: October 22, 2013
Series: Divergent #3
Page #: 544
Source: Own Purchased Copy

Summary:
"The faction-based society that Tris Prior once believed in is shattered—fractured by violence and power struggles and scarred by loss and betrayal. So when offered a chance to explore the world past the limits she’s known, Tris is ready. Perhaps beyond the fence, she and Tobias will find a simple new life together, free from complicated lies, tangled loyalties, and painful memories.

But Tris’s new reality is even more alarming than the one she left behind. Old discoveries are quickly rendered meaningless. Explosive new truths change the hearts of those she loves. And once again, Tris must battle to comprehend the complexities of human nature—and of herself—while facing impossible choices about courage, allegiance, sacrifice, and love."
___________________________________________________
First Lines:

"I pace in our cell in Erudite headquarters, her words echoing in my mind: My name will be Edith Prior, and there is much I am happy to forget." 
Page 1
___________________________________________________
Review:

**SPOILER WARNING: Obviously there will be spoilers from Divergent and Insurgent. If you haven't read those books yet, please be aware that there will be spoilers. I apologize!!** 
Man, how in the world can I review this book? I have been waiting like crazy for this one and I devoured it as slowly as I could. Drinking in all of the details and being shocked by many revelations. But it was worth it.

Okay. Third book in the Divergent trilogy... Tris and Four have uncovered the biggest secret about their world - that it isn't real. They realize that the only way to figure things out and have a better life is to escape their society. Once outside, they begin to understand the magnitude of the deception. Lots of secrets are revealed and plans hatched to fix things. The only question now is how they are going to live with all of the things they have learned.

I thought it was really clever the way Roth set up the world outside of the walls. It all makes a lot of sense and truly seems likely - that we would effectively quarantine people and start from scratch when things got so bad. It seems pretty logical, actually. But the people have their memories wiped and new ideas planted. It's a crazy concept, but if the world were bad enough, it might seem pretty tempting.

In the act of wrapping up the Divergent story, there were tons of facts thrown at you during the first half of this book. It was a little more instructional and giving you the basics of how the world works. That sort of world-building typically happens in the first of a series. But once your entire perspective changes during this third book, you need that re-learning about the world. That was interesting, for sure, but it took me a while to really get into it. 

I don't think I can complete this review without discussing the ending. I'm going to color block this section because of serious spoilers... so read at your own discretion:
I know that a lot of people have been really upset about the way the book ended. I'd be lying if I said I was totally cool with it, myself. But I kind of get it. I mean, Roth completely tied up any loose ends and made it where there really cannot be another book. But it seems pretty intense to kill off your main character. And I really wonder how that is going to play in a movie - if they end up making second and third ones. It was shocking, for sure. And I really didn't think it would end up that way. The epilogue was really very sweet, but still left me feeling sad. I was hoping for a more hopeful and happy ending for Tris, but we certainly didn't have that. I'm still a little in shock about the whole thing. Well written, but damn! 

While I know there have been mixed reviews about this final book, I still recommend the series to everyone I know. It's well done and so thought out. I'm looking forward to the movie that comes out in a few months. Fingers crossed that it does the books justice! I'm sort of sad that this series is finally over... but I cannot WAIT to see what Veronica Roth does next. Cause I'll definitely be on board.
___________________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

Helen's Book Blog
Book. Blog. Bake. 
Cuddlebuggery Book Blog
The Book Smugglers
Nerdy Book Club
Alexa Loves Books
Just a Lil' Lost
Book Hooked Blog
Vilma's Book Blog
Planet Print

The Scorch Trials by James Dashner

Title: The Scorch Trials
Author: James Dashner
ISBN: 9780307706621
Publisher: Random House Children's
Released: October 26, 2010
Series: The Maze Runner #2
Duration: 10 Hours, 23 Minutes
Source: eAudio from my public library

Summary:
"Solving the Maze was supposed to be the end. No more puzzles. No more variables. And no more running. Thomas was sure that escape meant he and the Gladers would get their lives back. But no one really knew what sort of life they were going back to.

In the Maze, life was easy. They had food, and shelter, and safety . . . until Teresa triggered the end. In the world outside the Maze, however, the end was triggered long ago.

Burned by sun flares and baked by a new, brutal climate, the earth is a wasteland. Government has disintegrated--and with it, order--and now Cranks, people covered in festering wounds and driven to murderous insanity by the infectious disease known as the Flare, roam the crumbling cities hunting for their next victim . . . and meal.

The Gladers are far from finished with running. Instead of freedom, they find themselves faced with another trial. They must cross the Scorch, the most burned-out section of the world, and arrive at a safe haven in two weeks. And WICKED has made sure to adjust the variables and stack the odds against them.

Thomas can only wonder--does he hold the secret of freedom somewhere in his mind? Or will he forever be at the mercy of WICKED?"
______________________________________________
First Lines: 

"She spoke to him before the world fell apart. 
Hey, are you still asleep?
Thomas shifted in his bed, felt a darkness around him like air turned solid, pressing in."
Page 1
______________________________________________
Review:

I am sort of depressed that they have pushed back the release date for the Maze Runner movie - which is one of the reasons I am making my way through this series. Alas! But it's still worth reading/listening to.

This second book picks up right where The Maze Runner left off. The boys are outside of the maze, but they still aren't sure where they are. They soon realize that this new life isn't any better than the one they just escaped. Then the boys are dropped into a new horror - a desert land that is full of people who will attack them at first sight. But they have to get through it to be taken to safety.

I think one of my favorite things about this series so far is the mystery. There are so many things that the characters are uncovering as they go along - and you can't trust everything they find out! Often they are being lied to, tricked, and forced to deceive each other. You never know what's going to happen! I think Dashner does that masterfully. He keeps you on your toes and I think that's what makes me continue to get excited about this series.

There are some new characters introduced in this second book. They are mostly picked up from this crazy city they have to get through. Those people really add a whole new layer to the relationships between all of the boys. Speaking of the maze group, some of the sideline characters from the first book become more important. They have dwindled down a bit, so I can imagine the next book will pull them even closer together.

As usual, I get worried going into a second book. There's a lot of the sophomore slump syndrome out there. But this series really doesn't have that problem. Not even a little bit. The story just keeps building in a way that makes the reader wonder what in the world could possibly happen next. It's so well done, I pretty much want to give this book to everyone who hasn't read it yet. I know I'm a little slow on the up-take here, but it really is worth it.

And even though it's been pushed back, I still can't wait to see how these books translate to the big screen. I think there is so much meet in these stories that it could be amazing. So... I know I'm not convincing anyone to read these books, but I totally recommend it. Plus, the audio is REALLY well done. Some of the best that I've listened to. The reader does a great job distinguishing between all of the guys. It's a bit impressive. Anyway... read it. Listen to it. Dashner is a master. Obviously. 
______________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

The Book Smugglers
The Dancing Reader
Nerdfighters
Reading for Sanity
Foil the Plot
Rinn Reads
Literary Getaway
The Reader Lines
Empire of Books
Eve's Fan Garden

Coda by Emma Trevayne

Title: Coda
Author: Emma Trevayne
ISBN: 9780762447282
Publisher: Running Press
Released: May 7, 2013
Page #: 311
Source: ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:
"Deep in an abandoned basement, eighteen-year-old Anthem sings of truth and freedom with his illegal underground band. Yet on the surface and under watchful eyes, Anthem is unable to resist the call of the Corporation's addictive, mind-altering music tracks, even as he knows they are used to control him and his fellow citizens.

When tragedy strikes close to home, Anthem realizes that defying the Corp comes at a deadly price. The key to revolution might lie wit the girl Anthem loves, but will he trust her enough to let her join the fight?"
____________________________________________________
First Lines: (Quote from the ARC, subject to change)

"I'm drawn toward the door. I can't hear it yet, but I can feel it. A pulse, a heartbeat. The floor shakes. 
Inside, the cavernous, soundproof room is already packed, black and neon and flashing lights and stifling heat from the crush of bodies."
Page 7
____________________________________________________
Review:

I was really excited by this concept when I first picked up this book. Music as a drug given to people by the government? What an insane idea... I was fully intrigued and ready to delve into the story.

So, Anthem is a guy who is low on the totem pole. His job as a conduit is looked down upon by most people - he's just supplying energy to the grid. But he has a huge secret. There is a small group of people he meets and plays music with - which is strictly forbidden. Everyone is hooked on the coded music that is given to them. So much so that they go through withdrawals without it. Then something happens to a friend of Anthem's and he starts to see the world for what it really is.

When I was trying to get my footing at the start of the book, I found myself saying, "This is a character driven story set in a world I don't understand." And I fully felt that for the first, like, half of the book. I was eager to learn about Anthem's life - his family, his girl, his friends, and everything. You really get a big glimpse into his life. But I really didn't understand the world until almost the end of the novel.

I think the author does a good job giving you a snapshot of the lower castes and what they have to do to survive. It's a rough life. They are constantly being watched. They can't talk about certain things. There are tons of restrictions and they die really early. I liked the idea of being able to visit your loved one's lives in a museum/library setting. What a very cool idea. But if you break any of the rules, the government will take away your ability to hear - the worst punishment possible for a world where music is what keeps you going.

Speaking of the drug aspect of this book - I thought it was really interesting to attack the theme of drug use like this. It's a seemingly harmless thing, but people cannot go a few hours without "tracking." And you get several scenes with people ODing and going through withdrawals. I feel like if this was being shown to the readers with an actual drug, this book would be so controversial! And probably not YA. I didn't really contemplate this idea much while I was reading, but now that I think about it, the whole thing was super intense.

Was this book for me? Not really. But I think the teens who are very "down with the man" and music loving will absolutely die for this. It's a smart story that really carries a huge punch. I just felt like I was muddling through a few times. The voice wasn't one I identified with, so it was a little more difficult for me to get all of the feels out of it. I do know that it will be a splash with the right reader.
____________________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

Chapter By Chapter
The Midnight Garden
Jessabella Reads
Young Adultish
Sister Spooky
The Inbetweeners
Dark Faerie Tales
Once Upon a Bookcase
Bookhounds YA
A.B. Keuser

The Eternity Cure by Julie Kagawa

Title: The Eternity Cure
Author: Julie Kagawa
ISBN: 9780373210695
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Released: April 30, 2013
Series: Blood of Eden #2
Page #: 446
Source: eARC from NetGalley

Summary:

"In Allison Sekemoto's world, there is one rule left: Blood calls to blood.

She has done the unthinkable: died so that might continue to live. Cast out of Eden and separated from the boy she dared to love, Allie will follow the call of blood to save her creator, Kanin, from the psychotic vampire Sarren. But when the trail leads to Allie's birthplace in New Covington, what Allie finds there will change the world forever—and possibly end human and vampire existence.

There's a new plague on the rise, a strain of the Red Lung virus that wiped out most of humanity generations ago—and this strain is deadly to humans and vampires alike. The only hope for a cure lies in the secrets Kanin carries, if Allie can get to him in time.

Allison thought that immortality was forever. But now, with eternity itself hanging in the balance, the lines between human and monster will blur even further, and Allie must face another choice she could never have imagined having to make."
_____________________________________________________
First Lines: (From the ARC, subject to change)

"I smelled blood as soon as I walked into the room.
A blast of snow-laced air accompanied me, swirling around my black coat, clinging to my hair and clothes as I shoved back the door."
Page 9
_____________________________________________________
Review:

While this book did take me an eternity to finish, it wasn't the fault of the book. Life got in the way (darn life!). If this is the first you are hearing of the Blood of Eden series, I highly suggest you go pick up a copy of The Immortal Rules. It's a perfect vampire novel. Plus, there might be spoilers in this review....

So, Allison is finally getting used to being a vampire. She's learned how to deal with her urges, and even how to stay up a little past the sunrise. She's making huge progress. And now she is on a quest to rescue her sire. She can tell he is in great danger and wants to help. But once she finds where he is, she realizes there are much bigger things at stake. There is a new human virus that is making people go crazy and attack. Plus, it does something wicked to vampires. She's between a rock and a hard place, but she is back where she started. Where she grew up. One would hope that might give her the upper hand.

Quite frankly, I was really worried that Zeke wouldn't be in this book. The first book left him in Eden. A human refuge. Allison had walked away from him and all of the other people they met on the journey. I'm not going to get into specifics, but he does appear in this story again. And things really heat up. He becomes even more of a badass than he was before ... and don't even get me STARTED on the ending! Whew!

I don't recall much about Sarren from the first book, but he becomes the ultimate baddy in Eternity Cure. He's vicious and unrelenting and just plain intense. There are times that Allie has to get into his head and figure out what in the world his grand plan could be. He also pulls no punches and will use the weakest thing about you in a fight.And I love how Jackel is the guy you can't trust, but you sort of have to. It's hard to know what side of the fence he lives on, but he definitely keeps you on your toes. I sort of can't wait to learn more about him.

You can see where the focus of the next book is going to be - on Eden again. And on Sarren and his plans for the world. I absolutely cannot wait. And I promise not to take so long reading that one. I'm definitely hooked into the story. Kagawa has a gift for telling rich, amazing stories. I am definitely a fan and will read just about anything from her. So, now comes the waiting game for book three.

This series really is great for those vampire lovers who are still out there. The main character is a reluctant vamp and you get the feeling that she really doesn't want to give in to the dark side. It makes her lovable and relateable. I think a lot of teens will identify with some of her struggles (outside of the wanting to drink blood thing). I have recommended these books several times and will continue to do so.
_____________________________________________________
Other Book Reviews:

I'm Loving Books
Candace's Book Blog
Bookish Ardour
Musings of a YA Reader
ReadBreatheRead
Anna Reads
Writing is a Blessing
Fiction Frenzy
Book Chick City
Book Brats

The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau

Title: The Testing
Author: Joelle Charbonneau
ISBN: 9780547959108
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Released: June 4, 2013
Series: Testing Trilogy #1
Page #: 344
Source: eARC from NetGalley

Summary:

It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (”Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.

_____________________________________________________
First Lines: (Quoted from the e-galley - Subject to change.)

"Graduation day.
I can hardly stand still as my mother straightens my celebratory red tunic and tucks a strand of light brown hair behind my ear."
Page 1
_____________________________________________________
Review:

I was very intrigued when I got a NetGalley notice that I could view this book for a short period. The concept was right up my alley. I know that since Hunger Games became popular, the dystopian/crazy society books have blown up. Many have been compared, others have been based on it. I'm not sure what the thought process was with this one, but it's almost a carbon copy.

Cia lives in an area outside of the United Commonwelth. Every year, teens are chosen to come to the city for The Testing. They will test their skills, knowledge, and survival ability. The people who pass the testing get to go to the University and will become high ranking officials in the Commonwelth. But Cia didn't realize just what the testing would entail. And she finds herself trying to get the better of the ones in charge - tricking them to get ahead.

I didn't realize how many similarities to Hunger Games until I was over halfway through it. Okay, I know that it's not exactly the same. Some of the details are changed. It's not a fight to the death - but yes, teens do die/kill each other. Cia has a complicated relationship with a guy who goes through this experience with her. There are more, but I think you see what I mean.

There are some readers who are only interested in books that are exactly like their favorites. This book will definitely fill the hole for that kind of reader. It's fast paced and I truly wanted to find out what would happen. It had that feel of a good book - one that you can't really put down. But I had a hard time with the similarities to other titles to consider it fantastic. But it's well written and an engaging story.

When recommending this one, I believe it will come with that caveat. Just be aware of what you are getting into. But I do recommend this one to lovers of Hunger Games. You will find yourself rooting for Cia and her family. And I can only imagine what will happen next. I believe the second book is already being talked about - and I will be very interested to see what direction that goes.
_____________________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

Badass Book Reviews
Unconventional Book Views
Teen Librarian Toolbox
Fastidious Reader
Stacked Books
The Page Walker
Istyria Book Blog
Before Midnight
Gliterary Girl
Tangled Up in Books

The Elite by Kiera Cass

Title: The Elite
Author: Kiera Cass
ISBN: 978006209963
Publisher: HarperTeen
Released: April 23, 2013
Series: The Selection #2
Page #: 323
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary:
"Thirty-five girls came to the palace to compete in the Selection. All but six have been sent home. And only one will get to marry Prince Maxon and be crowned princess of Illea.

America still isn’t sure where her heart lies. When she’s with Maxon, she’s swept up in their new and breathless romance, and can’t dream of being with anyone else. But whenever she sees Aspen standing guard around the palace, and is overcome with memories of the life they planned to share. With the group narrowed down to the Elite, the other girls are even more determined to win Maxon over—and time is running out for America to decide.

Just when America is sure she’s made her choice, a devastating loss makes her question everything again. And while she’s struggling to imagine her future, the violent rebels that are determined to overthrow the monarchy are growing stronger and their plans could destroy her chance at any kind of happy ending."
__________________________________________________
First Lines: (From the ARC, so they are subject to change)

"The Angeles air was quiet, and for a while I lay still, listening to the sound of Maxon's breathing. It was getting harder and harder to catch him in a truly calm and happy moment, and I soak up the time, grateful that he seemed to be at his best when he and I were alone."
Page 1
__________________________________________________
Review:

If you haven't read The Selection yet, you need to do so STAT. It's such a great mix of romance and dystopian... you won't even know what hit you. So, do that before you read this review. Well, at least read on at your own caution.

So, America is still in the race. The Prince has let her know that she is on an even shorter list - he wants to be with her forever. But then things start to happen that have Mer questioning whether he's sincere. It doesn't help that Aspen has taken a job in the castle - having him so close has kept her very confused. They are always under the threat of rebel attacks and Maxon is pulled in a thousand different directions. Mer begins to wonder whether anything is real.

I believe I described The Selection as being very much like The Bachelor TV show. The Elite continues that in full force. You still have Prince Maxom trying to decide between all of these girls - even though the pool has been narrowed considerably. There are tasks they have to complete to show their competence about ruling a country and being a lady. Do some girls get kicked out of the palace? Yeah, a few. That's to be expected, isn't it?! Is it super dramatic? Of course!

So many books for teens these days have the whole love triangle aspect. It's pretty much a given. If you don't have that, is it really for teens? Kidding. Sort of. But sometimes it's easy to pick a clear side - the way an author obviously has you leaning in one direction. I would like to propose that Kiera Cass has gotten the love triangle down to a science. I honestly can't choose a side! One chapter I'm rooting for Maxon, and the next I'm rooting for Aspen! It's so confusing. But that really does convey America's problem throughout the novels. I can honestly see why she's torn. It comes across as legit, not just an afterthought. I have to give the author props on that.

I'll leave the romance stuff in a second, but one more thing... I have noticed a lot more books lately have the whole instantaneous love thing. The characters meet and fall head over heels within two pages. But not in these books! I think the author does a great job setting up a background and a reason for things to happen the way that they do. It is just well crafted. It's more believable for me (even if it's set in a future time where people are forced into castes in life).

I don't want any dystopian lovers to get turned off by all the romance stuff. This is a great dystopian. You learn a lot about how this world was created, how the caste system was set up, etc. There's a lot more history in this second book. It helps tie together all of the crazy aspects of the story. And I'm very interested to see how things escalate in the next book (whenever that might be). Enemies are becoming restless, the caste system is in question, and you will learn a ton about the King toward the end of this second novel. How can you not be intrigued?! :)

If you can't tell, I'm a huge fan of Kiera Cass. I'll probably read anything she does at this point. Just found out that there's a novella that I need to spend a couple of bucks on. Definitely. Doing. That. I have recommended The Selection to several people and they have all loved it, too. Now I know the second book is just as good (or better), so I can't wait to pass it around! Definitely get on this one, people.  
__________________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

Once Upon a Twilight
Dark Faerie Tales
Mostly YA Lit
Two Chicks on Books
Escaping Through Books
i heart y.a. fiction
Into the Hall of Books
Anna Reads
Bookaholic Corner
Nawanda Files

The Essence by Kimberly Derting

Title: The Essence
Author: Kimberly Derting
ISBN: 9781442445598
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Released: January 1, 2013
Series: The Pledge #2
Page #: 341
Source: My public library

Summary:
"Though it has been months since Charlaina - Charlie - defeated the tyrant Sabara and took control of the Ludanian crown, Sabara has not disappeared. The evil queen's Essence has fused itself to Charlie's psyche, ever present right below the surface, ready to take control at the first sign of weakness.

Balancing her new duties as Queen and battling both Sabara's voice and a growing resistance determined to return Ludania to its discriminatory caste system are pushing Charlie to the brink. She wants to be the same old Charlie she has ever been, the one who Max loves, the one who Brook trusts, but now she is Your Majesty. Struggling to keep Sabara's presence a secret, Charlie is torn in two.

As Charlie journeys to an annual summit to meet with the leaders of nearby Queendoms - an event where her ability to understand all languages will be the utmost asset - she is faced with the ultimate betrayal.
And the only person she can turn to for help is the evil soul residing within."
________________________________________________
First Lines:

"He approached respectfully, cautiously. Warily.
She'd always been capricious, his queen. But of late, she was nothing less than upredictable."
Page 3
________________________________________________
Review:

So, I really enjoyed The Pledge. But for some reason, I had a harder time getting through this second book. The story is solid, but...

Charlie has become the queen of Ludania, but she isn't alone. There is a second soul living in her body - the past queen named Sabara - who is trying to take control. Things start to escalate when Sabara spies her old flame and fellow immortal. Because of this, Charlie has even less control over her own body. There is also unrest in the countryside. There are people who want her dead. There is definitely a mole in the trusted royal advisers, but no one knows where to look.

Several people asked me how this book was while I was reading it. I will repeat my answer here... "I'm sure I would love it more if I had read The Pledge yesterday instead of a year ago." Consider yourself warned. You either need to remember exactly what happened in the first book or just go with it till you figure things out. There isn't a whole lot of backtracking to get you caught up. And up to date on who is who. It took them practically making out for me to remember that Max is Charlie's love interest.

I spent quite a while very confused about what was going on. I had remembered the beginning of the first book fairly clearly. But everything else was a little blurry. I know that this clouded my vision of this book - and didn't help with the amount of time it took for me to finish it. All that being said, the bones of this book are good. The story is good. I just needed a little more of a push to get me mentally involved. Especially when one of the main themes is a double-souled body. Things can get very confusing when that's not explored clearly. I have read lots of reviews by people who absolutely adored this book. So I feel like I might not have been in the right mindset.

In this second book you have another perspective added as well - Brooklyn has taken the position of commanding Charlie's army. She is the one who realizes there is someone against them. The one who has to protect the Queen. And it doesn't help that they're on the road traveling to a summit. So she adds a lot of adventure and is a very interesting character. There were a few others that I wish we had seen more of - ones that would have probably given the story more depth.

I think one of the reasons this book didn't resonate as much for me is that one of my favorite elements from the first book was missing. I just re-read my review and I remember loving and talking about the language barriers. Different levels of society spoke different languages. You weren't supposed to understand each other - especially if you were from a lower level of society. It was considered a crime if you heard a different language and looked at the person speaking it. What a cool concept. But that was thrown out the window the instant Charlie became Queen. You only get a small taste of that throughout this second story. And I suppose I was hoping for more of that idea.

So, all that being said... I know many people have loved these two books. I would probably still recommend them to people, but specify that they need to be read one right after the other. It's probably not my favorite series of all time, but I know it fits a niche that people really love right now (thanks dystopian lovers of the world). :) I hope you all have much better luck with this one than I did!
________________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

Finding Bliss in Books
Carina's Books
Novel Novice
Mundie Moms
What the Cat Read
Gobs and Gobs of Books
DJ's Life in Fiction
Much Loved Books
Nori's Closet
In Between

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Title: Shatter Me
Author: Tahereh Mafi
ISBN: 9780062085481
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Series: Shatter Me #1
Released: November 15, 2011
Duration: 9 hours, 12 minutes
Source: Audiobook from my public library

Summary:
"Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days. 
The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.
 
The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war-- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior."

____________________________________________________
First Lines:

"I've been locked up for 264 days. 
I have nothing but a small notebook and a broken pen and the numbers in my head to keep me company."
Page 1
____________________________________________________
Review:

This was one of those books I listened to pretty much only because it was available at my library. I've sort of figured out that might be the only way I get to some of these titles these days. But I am so glad I did! There was much more to it than I was bargaining for!

So, Juliette is unable to be touched. The last time someone did, she accidentally killed them. The government put her away until she was granted her freedom - by Warner. Someone who wanted to exploit her abilities. She also finds that she has someone on her side - someone who would do anything for her. But to what end? How will they survive in a world where things are falling apart?

Can I just say how much I loved this book? I feel like I haven't read as many dystopians that take place as the government is actively falling. Typically, it is after the fall and the people dealing with it. This book is smack in the middle of it. And I think that makes it very unique. You start very simple - a girl in a locked cell. Then she gets a roommate. Then she's let out... It just keeps growing and growing. I loved that feeling of learning just a little more each chapter. You could actively feel the story building. It felt like really good writing and storytelling. I was impressed.

The idea that there is a girl who can't touch people is very X-Men. Truly, it gets even more X-Men-y toward the end. But I feel like the way the story is told kept me from thinking about that until the very last second. I can only imagine that the next book is going to be even more so. I've heard good things, though... so I am eager to get that one.

I did listen to this book. And let me tell you... there are some steamy bits. Like, fan your face as you're driving... steamy. I mean, you can imagine... Girl who can't touch people. But there's one boy who miraculously can. What to you expect to happen? So everything is just overly sensual, I think. I'm not sure if it comes across that way in the normal reading. But listening to it? Whew!

I give this one a solid two thumbs up. I'm a little late to this party - as the book came out over a year ago. But I'm so glad I've finally joined in! I have already talked to a couple of people about the second book - so I can only imagine how I am going to feel after reading that one. I'll keep ya posted. :)
____________________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

Book Addict
Novels on the Run
Awesomesauce Book Club
The Z-Axis
Afternoon Book Party
Alice in Readerland
Sarah's Reviews
Alexa Loves Books
Mariela O. Blogs
A Year of Books

Through the Ever Night by Veronica Rossi

Title: Through the Ever Night
Author: Veronica Rossi
ISBN: 9780062072061
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Series: Under the Never Sky #2
Released: January 8, 2013
Pages: 341
Source: From my public library

Summary:
"It's been months since Aria learned of her mother's death.
Months since Perry became Blood Lord of the Tides, and months since Aria last saw him.

Now Aria and Perry are about to be reunited. It's a moment they've been longing for with countless expectations. And it's a moment that lives up to all of them. At least, at first. Then it slips away. The Tides don't take kindly to former Dwellers like Aria. And the tribe is swirling out of Perry's control. With the Aether storms worsening every day, the only remaining hope for peace and safety is the Still Blue. But does this haven truly exist?

Threatened by false friends and powerful temptations, Aria and Perry wonder, Can their love survive through the ever night? In this second book in her spellbinding Under the Never Sky trilogy, Veronica Rossi combines fantasy and sci-fi elements to create a captivating adventure—and a love story as perilous as it is unforgettable".
____________________________________________________
First Lines:

"Aria was here.
Perry followed her scent, moving swiftly through the night. He kept his stride even as he scanned the darkened woods, though his heart hammered in his chest."
Page 1
____________________________________________________
Review:

If you haven't read Under the Never Sky, I would suggest you do so. I don't think I can leave out any spoilers from that one in this review. Plus, it's really good. You'll be happy you did.

This second book is still about Aria and Perry and their newfound relationship. They have been apart for months, but not by any choice of their own. Both of them have had huge life changes. Perry is now the leader of the Tides and Aria has lost her mother. She has also been given the task of finding the Still Blue - a place where the Aether doesn't attack. Unfortunately, they can't spend time together because of their quests. They are pulled in different directions, and only find themselves together in the heat of a crisis.

I have to say, this was a solid sequel. Most times, I go into these things with a bit of caution. I know many second books suffer from the slump - where you adore the first book and the second one falls flat. But truly, this one was just as good as the first one. In fact, I might think it was better. You have gotten to know these characters and you can imagine the things they have gone through. This second book just builds on all of that base knowledge. You now get to know more about them - more about where they came from, more about who they are. And you really find out just how awesome the characters are!

Typically, when I start reading a second book, I have to go back to my review of the first one to even remember what it was about. This one? I didn't have to remind myself at all - I remembered the first book with pretty striking clarity. I think that's one of the tests of a great book. If you can remember it without any trouble, it was well done. And I don't think I will be getting this one out of my head any time soon.

One thing I really enjoyed about this book was the emphasis on Roar and his life. You get a peek into that through the first book, but you start to understand him better. He becomes a real and important person. I think the author did a great job setting up the story like that. You get all of the love and romance and drama from the first book, but it is compounded by the amazing characters introduced in this one.

As usual, I'm not going to spoil the ending for you. But can I just say that there is a huge shocker toward the end? I mean, huge. It changes the course of the story. And I'm going to put this in writing - I think what happened may not have actually happened the way we think it did. You don't get a firm look at the situation. You just remember it through Aria... And you never know! Maybe that will be the twist in the next book. But it's a shocker... so get ready for that!

All you dystopian lovers out there - this book is 100% for you. It's definitely in my wheelhouse. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book. The mystery is about to be solved and I can only imagine the drama of trying to get there! I'll definitely be waiting impatiently for the next installment. Has it even been announced yet?
____________________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

Cuddlebuggery
Katie's Book Blog
Two Chicks on Books
Nick's Book Blog
A Life Bound By Books
Lily's Book Blog
Melissa's Bookshelf
Ivy Book Bindings
Once Upon a Bookcase
The Bookish Babe

Reached by Ally Condie

Title: Reached
Author: Ally Condie
ISBN: 9780525423669
Publisher: Dutton Books
Released: November 13, 2012
Series: Matched #3
Page #: 512
Source: My public library

Summary:
"Cassia's journey began with an error, a momentary glitch in the otherwise perfect facade of the Society. After crossing canyons to break free, she waits, silk and paper smuggled against her skin, ready for the final chapter.

The wait is over.

One young woman has raged against those who threaten to keep away what matters most - family, love, choice. Her quiet revolution is about to explode into full-scale rebellion."
__________________________________________________
First Lines:

"Every morning, the sun comes up and turns the earth red, and I think: This could be the day when everything changes. Maybe today the Society will fall."
__________________________________________________
Review:

Okay, so at the end of the last book I was really worried about how the final book in this trilogy would turn out. But really it's a great conclusion - giving you a feeling of full circle. Life is the way it should be... and everyone is somewhat happy.

This is the final book in the Matched Trilogy. Cassia has been through some crazy hardships. She's been in the Society, out to the fringe areas, in the Rising, and back into the Society. It's been quite the roller coaster, but she is finally figuring out where she belongs. And who she belongs with. You learn even more about her family and how they have gotten her to where she is and how they help her figure out the greatest mystery of her life.

You know, now that I think about it... this book has the same sort of two-story thing that the second book had. You start out with all of these characters placed around in the Society waiting for something to happen. There is a clear picture of what their lives are like and how things have changed. But then the plague hits and you have a whole new story. It wasn't as drastic as the second book, but it's sort of the same formula. Not necessarily a bad thing... just interesting.

I don't know that I can say I loved this book. The first book was fantastic, but this was probably my second favorite. There is a lot more self-actualization in this one. Cassia is figuring out what it means to be an artist, a poet. Ky has finally found a roll that suits him perfectly - a pilot - and all of the things that affords him. And Xander has become one of the best doctors ever. It almost feels like this story should take place years down the road instead of just after the Rising comes into place.

While this book is about the Rising finally, you know, rising... it's sort of a quiet story. The action is against the plague - which is a quiet disease because all of the patients go "still." And there doesn't seem to be any sort of uprising. I think I was expecting much more of a boom in the end. And some buildings to collapse or something. I would expect the end of the Society to be much louder. But, you know, that's sort of how changes happen for real, isn't it? Small changes with big names... It's an interesting concept.

Sometimes it seems like authors want to leave you hanging on forever. But I really loved that this book comes to a very complete, very satisfying conclusion. There aren't any people you're still worrying about. There aren't any unknowns about how life is going to be from here on out. I just felt very satisfied when it was all over. 

If you haven't read Matched, I highly suggest you do so. You won't be sorry. And I look forward to whatever Ally Condie has for us next. I just know it will be amazing, whatever it is!
__________________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:
 
Katie's Book Blog
Sarah's YA Book Blog
Diary of a Bookworm
Two Chicks on Books
My Not So Real Life
It's All About Books
YA Book Queen
Book Addict
Bloody Bookaholic
Lunar Rainbows

Beta by Rachel Cohn

Title: Beta
Author: Rachel Cohn
ISBN: 9781423157199
Publisher: Hyperion Teens
Series: Annex #1
Released: October 16, 2012
Page #: 329
Source: eARC on NetGalley

Summary:

"Elysia is created in a laboratory, born as a sixteen-year-old girl, an empty vessel with no life experience to draw from. She is a Beta, an experimental model of a teenage clone. She was replicated from another teenage girl, who had to die in order for Elysia to exist.

Elysia’s purpose is to serve the inhabitants of Demesne, an island paradise for the wealthiest people on earth. Everything about Demesne is bioengineered for perfection. Even the air induces a strange, euphoric high, which only the island’s workers—soulless clones like Elysia—are immune to.

At first, Elysia’s life is idyllic and pampered. But she soon sees that Demesne’s human residents, who should want for nothing, yearn. But for what, exactly? She also comes to realize that beneath the island’s flawless exterior, there is an under­current of discontent among Demesne’s worker clones. She knows she is soulless and cannot feel and should not care—so why are overpowering sensations cloud­ing Elysia’s mind?

If anyone discovers that Elysia isn’t the unfeeling clone she must pretend to be, she will suffer a fate too terrible to imagine. When her one chance at happi­ness is ripped away with breathtaking cruelty, emotions she’s always had but never understood are unleashed. As rage, terror, and desire threaten to overwhelm her, Elysia must find the will to survive."
__________________________________________________
First Lines:

"It's me she wants to purchase.
The fancy lady claims she came into the resort boutique looking to buy a sweater, but she can't take her eyes off me."
Page 1
__________________________________________________
Review:

If nothing else, this book will teach you that clones are going to take over the world. Well, sort of. Maybe they will only take over if people treat them like property - something to buy and serve them for the duration of their lives.

So, Elysia is the clone of a dead girl. She was created to serve as a companion to whatever family she is bought by. She isn't supposed to have feelings, memories, cravings and really, independent thought. She gets purchased by a well-to-do family who cherishes her and treat her mostly like a daughter. But she realizes that things aren't the way they're supposed to be. Especially when she starts to hear about clone uprisings. She finds a few things she wasn't supposed to see/know and it changes the whole course of her short clone-life.

For some reason, I had trouble picturing the clones as regular people. I almost thought of them as cyborgs or something - totally metallic and creepy. But really, they are exactly like everyone else - except for their violet eyes and tattoos on their faces. I think what kept me from seeing them normally was how they were engineered. Emotionless, thoughtless, only living to serve. Doesn't that sound like a robot to you? I would probably be creeped out to come across a human-thing like that. Yikes.

The whole concept of this isolated island for the rich was very intriguing. Especially considering how much it caters to keeping people happy, calm, and generally even-keel. It's kind of amazing to think that a place like that would be possible - though I can only imagine that the rich and famous wish for a place like that. Of course, there is plenty of rivalry and society sniping, but it seems like such a crazy idea.

This story is set after the Water Wars. You don't really get a whole lot of history about this - enough to talk about how a city has been built in the middle of a desert. I am interested in learning more about the world where this is set - outside of the euphoric island. I'm sure the next book will lead us to more of that information.

While I have put a science fiction tag on this review, I think it is fairly tame for sci fi. It's really more about this girl trying to figure out who she is supposed to be - because she doesn't fit into the mold that she has been told to fit into. I think it's a really fun story and I know it will find plenty of readers. The ending leaves you on a huge cliffhanger, so be prepared for that. I look forward to getting my hands on the next part of the story. Can't go wrong with Rachel Cohn, can you? :)
__________________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

A Beautiful Madness
Book Nook
Bibliophilic Monologues
Miss Literati
Wild Heart Book Reviews
Hooked on Books
Cozy Up With a Good Read
The Housework Can Wait
Good Choice Reading
Wondrous Readings

Mystic City by Theo Lawrence

Title:Mystic City
Author: Theo Lawrence
ISBN: 9780385741606
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Page #: 352
Series: Mystic City
Source: eARC from NetGalley

Summary:

"Aria Rose, youngest scion of one of Mystic City's two ruling rival families, finds herself betrothed to Thomas Foster, the son of her parents' sworn enemies. The union of the two will end the generations-long political feud—and unite all those living in the Aeries, the privileged upper reaches of the city, against the banished mystics who dwell below in the Depths. 

But Aria doesn't remember falling in love with Thomas; in fact, she wakes one day with huge gaps in her memory. And she can't conceive why her parents would have agreed to unite with the Fosters in the first place. Only when Aria meets Hunter, a gorgeous rebel mystic from the Depths, does she start to have glimmers of recollection—and to understand that he holds the key to unlocking her past. The choices she makes can save or doom the city—including herself."

___________________________________________

First Lines:

"The party has begun without me.

Slowly, I descend the main staircase of our apartment, which curves dramatically into the reception lounge, currently packed with important guests."

Page 3

___________________________________________

Review:

I've become a dystopian junkie :). And this book was just up my alley. Not to mention that I love finding a great debut author. I'm really glad I gave this one a shot. 

Aria lives in the privileged part of what's left of Manhattan. She is the daughter of one of the most powerful families in the city. But she's recently had memory loss because of a drug overdose. But soon she realizes there is something wrong with the explanations she's gotten from her family. Things don't seem right. And then she meets Hunter. And things start to get even more fuzzy.

This story has a little bit of the Romeo and Juliet vibe - which is actually mentioned throughout the book. Aria is engaged to a guy from a warring family. She has been told she loves him, but doesn't have the right feelings toward him. But the whole world hangs on the edge of this relationship. Well, their world at least. 

There is also a fantasy aspect to this story. The people who keep the city running are called Mystics. These people have special abilities that the people in charge drain from them in order to have energy. The Mystics are the most powerful people, but it is stripped from them. And Aria finds out just how much she didn't know about how these people impacted her life. I loved learning all about these people. Such a cool idea... even if they were being exploited through most of this book. 

Okay, so there was one thing that sort of bothered me. The first 100-150 pages is about Aria and her lack of memory. She's trying to figure out what has happened and all of that. But really, it was almost too much. As the reader, I understood what had happened WAY before we got there. I guess that's not a bad thing, but it was hard to continue reading when I just wanted her to figure things out. 

So, while things were slow moving at first, I loved how things ended up. There's a lot more action, a lot more love, and a hook to get you into the next book. I will definitely recommend this one to my dystopian lovers. It's another good book to an ever expanding genre. So give it a shot. I'm ready for the next book, for sure.

___________________________________________

Other Blog Reviews:

Mystifying Paranormal Reviews

Book Passion for Life

Bananas for Books

Miss Literati

Rachel's Reads

My Book Journey

Supernatural Snark

A Journey Through Pages

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi

Title: Under the Never Sky

Author: Veronica Rossi
ISBN: 9780062072030
Publisher: HarperCollins
Released: January 03, 2012
Series: Under the Never Sky
Page #: 374
Source: My local public library

Summary:
"Exiled from her home, the enclosed city of Reverie, Aria knows her chances of surviving in the outer wasteland - known as The Death Shop - are slim. If the cannibals don't get her, the violent energy storms will. She's been taught that the very air she breathes can kill her. Then Aria meets an Outsider named Perry. He's wild - a savage - and her only hope of staying alive.

A hunter for his tribe in a merciless landscape, Perry views Aria as sheltered and fragile - everything he would expect from a Dweller. But he needs Aria's help too; she alone holds the key to his redemption. Opposites in nearly every way, Aria and Perry must accept each other to survive. Their unlikely alliance forges a bond that will determine the fate of all who live under the never sky.

In her enthralling debut, Veronica Rossi sends readers on an unforgettable adventure set in a world that's harsh but often beautiful."
______________________________________________
First Lines:

"They called the world beyond the walls of the Pod 'the Death Shop.' A million ways to die out there. Aria never thought she'd get so close."
Page 1
______________________________________________
Review:

I have read many great reviews of this book - it's one that I went into knowing I would love it. Right in my wheelhouse. And let me tell you, it didn't disappoint!

Aria is from a very sterile, very strict society within the Pod. They are protected from the Aether storms, protected from the savages, protected from all illness and disease. But Aria pisses off the wrong person and finds herself tossed from this life. She has to fend for herself in the wide world - with no idea about anything... until she meets Perry. He's a savage. She finds nothing about him to trust, but he is the only one with a plan on how to get her home. But as she learns more about him, the more intrigued she is.

Sometimes I think books suffer from changing point of views very often. But this book does it seamlessly. You go back and forth between Aria and Perry - both with very different perspectives on the world they live in. It really helps you get a full view of what the world is like and the way they react to it. And both characters start out distrusting - almost hating - each other. Being given both of their backgrounds allows you to feel sympathy and kindness toward both of them.

After finishing the book, I realized that we didn't get much about Aria's life while she was living in the Pod at the beginning. You do get little tidbits here and there to piece the story together. But I could have used a little more of the "daily life" stuff to get a full picture of it. Of course, this may be where I have to use my imagination. You do have quite a bit more about Perry's life and how things have been. I would like to know more about life in the Pods. Maybe that's in a future book... :)

Speaking of future books, I very much appreciated the end of this book. No, no... I'm not going to spoil it for you. There was lots of opportunity to leave the reader hanging off the edge and cursing the author, but it didn't happen! Things ended perfectly. You could be totally satisfied with this book as a whole and not worry about what's coming next. But on that note, I cannot wait to see what happens next!! I just know there will be epic craziness.

Oh yes, as a note: I probably wouldn't give this book to middle grade readers. There are some sexual situations that might not go over so well. But the flipside? So steamy. Whew!

I really had trouble putting this book down. It was one that I stayed up way too late to finish and spent every possible second reading. It totally sucked me in. I know I'm not the only one - see the many awesome reviews out there. So, I highly recommend this one. You won't be disappointed. Now to wait for the next book...
______________________________________________
Other Blog Reviews:

Electrifying Reviews
Sarah's Reviews
Novel Thoughts
The Hollow Cupboards
The Page Turner
Reading Lark
Book Chick City
Ramblings of a Book Junkie
At Home Between the Pages